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Join for free →Pilgrim's 10% Niacinamide + Kojic Acid Serum stands out with strong consumer study backing for its core claims, but consumers must navigate a confusing landscape of ingredient lists across online platforms to ensure they get the intended formulation.
₹177 • Analysed 18 July 2026
Actives like this can raise sun sensitivity, which India's high year-round UV makes significant, so pairing with a daytime SPF is important; the lighter the vehicle, the better it tends to wear in heat and humidity. The product is widely available across major Indian e-commerce and quick commerce platforms, with significant price variations and frequent discounts. Consumers should compare prices across platforms, especially for the 30ml variant, where discounts can bring the price down by over 30% from the stated MRP. The 10ml variant is often used as an entry-point or trial size, with a higher price per ml. The marketing stays within India's cosmetic advertising norms (ASCI / CDSCO), with claims that match what the formula can do.
Independent and free. The Clean Sheet takes no money from brands to review, rank, or approve a product. This is a web evidence review, not a Clean Sheet certification. We checked the ingredient list, publicly available test reports, marketing claims, and formula logic using only public information available at the time of review.
Worth knowing before you buy
EU Annex II/III banned & restricted screen. Tripeptide-1: Naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma
Supported by consumer study results showing brighter skin and reduced acne marks, contributing to a 'clearer, smoother' appearance. 'Glass-like' is aspirational.
Brand's consumer study states '95% noticed reduced acne marks' and '91% observed less oiliness on face'. Niacinamide and Zinc PCA are known to address these concerns.
Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, and Betaine are well-researched ingredients known for barrier support and hydration.
Active percentages (10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA) are disclosed. These ingredients are well-documented for sebum regulation and pore refinement.
Kojic Acid is a known ingredient for addressing hyperpigmentation. Its presence in the INCI supports the claim.
This claim attributes specific mechanisms ('micro skin cell messengers', 'penetrate deeply', 'boost collagen') to 'Korean Rice Water Exosomes'. While rice water has general skin benefits, the 'exosomes' and their specific deep penetration/collagen-boosting mechanism for this finished product are not supported by publicly visible clinical studies. This is ingredient-level theory.
The brand states 'Clinically tested' and provides consumer study results (95% noticed reduced acne marks, 93% brighter skin, 91% less oiliness). This indicates a finished product test, though full methodology is not public.
Quantified consumer study results are provided, indicating finished product testing. This is strong evidence for these specific claims.
What we could confirm from public sources and the verified ingredient list.
Ingredient Safety & Toxicity
Full ingredient list retrieved and verified against the label.
No ingredient with a recognised endocrine-activity concern found in the database.
No IARC-classified or formaldehyde-releasing ingredient found in the database screen.
No commonly-comedogenic ingredient found - a reasonable fit for acne-prone skin.
Irritation & Allergen Risk
No EU-declarable or database-flagged allergen found in the list.
No high-sensitisation preservative (MI/MCI/formaldehyde-releaser) from our screen was found.
Ingredient Transparency
The full INCI list is publicly available, not just hero ingredients.
Active percentages are disclosed for the hero ingredient(s).
Ingredients are listed in the descending order required by India Cosmetics Rules 2020.
Standards & Compliance
Usage warnings and directions are clear on the label.
No retinoid or other pregnancy-cautioned active found in the screen.
Screened against a curated reference set that we are continuing to verify and expand, so “clear” means no flag from that set, not a guarantee. Not a substitute for a full toxicological or clinical assessment.
| Ingredient |
|---|
Water |
Niacinamide |
Butylene Glycol |
Propanediol |
Zinc PCA |
Oryza Sativa Extract |
Torreya Nucifera Extract |
Dextran |
Tripeptide-1 |
Pentylene Glycol |
1,2-Hexanediol |
Sodium Hyaluronate |
Phenoxyethanol |
Ethylhexylglycerin |
Kojic Acid |
Betaine |
Allantoin |
Panthenol |
Xanthan Gum |
Acacia Senegal Gum |
Tocopheryl Acetate |
Polysorbate 20 |
Disodium EDTA |
INCI order as declared on packaging. Position reflects approximate concentration (high to low).
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
Flags are based on publicly available INCI only. Not a substitute for full regulatory compliance review.
Supported by consumer study results showing brighter skin and reduced acne marks, contributing to a 'clearer, smoother' appearance. 'Glass-like' is aspirational.
Evidence visible
Brand's consumer study states '95% noticed reduced acne marks' and '91% observed less oiliness on face'. Niacinamide and Zinc PCA are known to address these concerns.
Evidence visible
Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, and Betaine are well-researched ingredients known for barrier support and hydration.
Mentioned only
Active percentages (10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA) are disclosed. These ingredients are well-documented for sebum regulation and pore refinement.
Mentioned only
Kojic Acid is a known ingredient for addressing hyperpigmentation. Its presence in the INCI supports the claim.
Mentioned only
This claim attributes specific mechanisms ('micro skin cell messengers', 'penetrate deeply', 'boost collagen') to 'Korean Rice Water Exosomes'. While rice water has general skin benefits, the 'exosomes' and their specific deep penetration/collagen-boosting mechanism for this finished product are not supported by publicly visible clinical studies. This is ingredient-level theory.
Mentioned only
The brand states 'Clinically tested' and provides consumer study results (95% noticed reduced acne marks, 93% brighter skin, 91% less oiliness). This indicates a finished product test, though full methodology is not public.
Evidence visible
Quantified consumer study results are provided, indicating finished product testing. This is strong evidence for these specific claims.
Evidence visible
Formula logic supports lightweight and fast-absorbing for a serum. INCI review confirms no 'Parfum' or 'Fragrance' listed, supporting 'fragrance-free'.
Evidence visible
Brand states 'Dermatologically approved' and 'Clinically tested'. INCI confirms no added fragrance. 'Non-toxic' is an emotional claim, but 'dermatologically approved' supports safety.
Evidence visible
Public evidence the brand could provide to close verification gaps
This review evaluates brand claims against visible evidence and formula logic. It does not replace a full ingredient safety analysis or a clinical product test. Results vary by individual, and the consumer should always read the full ingredient list and follow usage guidance.
Are you the brand? If you have published test data or want to request a re-review, write to us at hello@thecleansheet.in.
Worth knowing before you buy
EU Annex II/III banned & restricted screen. Tripeptide-1: Naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma
Binding agent · A polysaccharide that can act as a binding agent and humectant.
Active · A peptide that can support skin repair and collagen production.
Solvent · A humectant and solvent, also contributes to preservation.
Solvent · A solvent and humectant, also has antimicrobial properties.
Humectant · A form of hyaluronic acid that attracts and holds moisture, providing hydration.
Preservative · A common preservative used to prevent microbial growth.
Preservative · A mild preservative and skin conditioning agent, often used to boost other preservatives.
Active · Known for its skin brightening properties and ability to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Humectant · A gentle humectant that helps maintain skin hydration and soothe irritation.
Skin conditioning · A soothing and skin-softening ingredient that can aid in wound healing.
Humectant · Pro-Vitamin B5, acts as a humectant, soothes skin, and supports barrier function.
Thickener · A natural thickener and emulsion stabilizer, improves product texture.
Thickener · A natural gum used as a thickener and film-former.
Antioxidant · A form of Vitamin E, provides antioxidant benefits and skin conditioning.
Emulsifier · A non-ionic emulsifier and solubilizer.
Chelator · A chelating agent that helps improve product stability and efficacy.
No commonly-comedogenic ingredient found - a reasonable fit for acne-prone skin.
Irritation & Allergen Risk
No EU-declarable or database-flagged allergen found in the list.
No high-sensitisation preservative (MI/MCI/formaldehyde-releaser) from our screen was found.
Ingredient Transparency
The full INCI list is publicly available, not just hero ingredients.
Active percentages are disclosed for the hero ingredient(s).
Ingredients are listed in the descending order required by India Cosmetics Rules 2020.
Standards & Compliance
Usage warnings and directions are clear on the label.
No retinoid or other pregnancy-cautioned active found in the screen.
Screened against a curated reference set that we are continuing to verify and expand, so “clear” means no flag from that set, not a guarantee. Not a substitute for a full toxicological or clinical assessment.
Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, and Betaine are well-researched ingredients known for barrier support and hydration.
Active percentages (10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA) are disclosed. These ingredients are well-documented for sebum regulation and pore refinement.
Kojic Acid is a known ingredient for addressing hyperpigmentation. Its presence in the INCI supports the claim.
This claim attributes specific mechanisms ('micro skin cell messengers', 'penetrate deeply', 'boost collagen') to 'Korean Rice Water Exosomes'. While rice water has general skin benefits, the 'exosomes' and their specific deep penetration/collagen-boosting mechanism for this finished product are not supported by publicly visible clinical studies. This is ingredient-level theory.
The brand states 'Clinically tested' and provides consumer study results (95% noticed reduced acne marks, 93% brighter skin, 91% less oiliness). This indicates a finished product test, though full methodology is not public.
Quantified consumer study results are provided, indicating finished product testing. This is strong evidence for these specific claims.
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
No prohibited or restricted ingredients identified
Flags are based on publicly available INCI only. Not a substitute for full regulatory compliance review.
Supported by consumer study results showing brighter skin and reduced acne marks, contributing to a 'clearer, smoother' appearance. 'Glass-like' is aspirational.
Evidence visible
Brand's consumer study states '95% noticed reduced acne marks' and '91% observed less oiliness on face'. Niacinamide and Zinc PCA are known to address these concerns.
Evidence visible
Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, and Betaine are well-researched ingredients known for barrier support and hydration.
Mentioned only
Active percentages (10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA) are disclosed. These ingredients are well-documented for sebum regulation and pore refinement.
Mentioned only
Kojic Acid is a known ingredient for addressing hyperpigmentation. Its presence in the INCI supports the claim.
Mentioned only
This claim attributes specific mechanisms ('micro skin cell messengers', 'penetrate deeply', 'boost collagen') to 'Korean Rice Water Exosomes'. While rice water has general skin benefits, the 'exosomes' and their specific deep penetration/collagen-boosting mechanism for this finished product are not supported by publicly visible clinical studies. This is ingredient-level theory.
Mentioned only
The brand states 'Clinically tested' and provides consumer study results (95% noticed reduced acne marks, 93% brighter skin, 91% less oiliness). This indicates a finished product test, though full methodology is not public.
Evidence visible
Quantified consumer study results are provided, indicating finished product testing. This is strong evidence for these specific claims.
Evidence visible
Formula logic supports lightweight and fast-absorbing for a serum. INCI review confirms no 'Parfum' or 'Fragrance' listed, supporting 'fragrance-free'.
Evidence visible
Brand states 'Dermatologically approved' and 'Clinically tested'. INCI confirms no added fragrance. 'Non-toxic' is an emotional claim, but 'dermatologically approved' supports safety.
Evidence visible
Public evidence the brand could provide to close verification gaps